dePaola, T. (1983). The legend of the bluebonnet. NY: Putnam.
She-Who-Is-Alone is an orphaned Comanche girl. Her parents and grandparents died in a terrible famine that hit her people. The only thing she has left of her family is her precious doll. When the shaman of her people returns from communicating with the Great Spirits, he tells them that the Great Spirits demand a sacrifice, that which is most precious. She-Who-Is-Alone knows that the Great Spirit speaks of her doll. That night she burns her doll in sacrifice. When morning comes she is surrounded by bluebonnets, a sign that the Great Spirits have forgiven her people. From then on they have plenty of rain and the famine is no more. Every spring the Great Spirits bring forth the beautiful blooms in memory of a brave little girl that gave everything she had for her people.
The Legend of the Bluebonnet shows the evaluation criteria of cultural markers. You can tell the author took her time researching the Comanche people. She accurately describes thier way of life, their beliefs, and even their appearance. Throughout the story she explains their beliefs, and the environment in which they lived which adds depth and meaning to the tale.
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